Radiology. 2026 Jul;320(1):e252721. doi: 10.1148/radiol.252721.
ABSTRACT
Pulmonary embolism (PE), defined as blockage of the pulmonary arteries, is a common and serious condition that requires accurate diagnosis and standardized reporting. Noninvasive imaging is well established for the diagnosis and management of PE and is incorporated into multiple societal guidelines. However, specific technical recommendations for the optimal interpretation and standardized reporting of CT and MR angiography remain absent. Diagnostic imaging is used to identify the presence or absence of PE and to risk-stratify patients. Evolving treatment options can be considered once an acute clot is identified, the patient's status is defined, and the patient is referred for appropriate treatment in a timely manner. Patient management for PE often involves multiple care teams, and clear and consistent communication between care teams is critical to patient care. The goal of the Pulmonary Embolism Reporting and Data System (PE-RADS) is twofold: (a) to create a standard lexicon for the description of terms used for acute PE diagnosis at CT and MR angiography and (b) to develop a structured, hierarchical reporting system that incorporates anatomic and accessory findings to classify clot location and right heart imaging features in acute PE and to assist in determining the cardiovascular status of the patient to inform next-step management. © 2026 RSNA and the American College of Chest Physicians published by Elsevier Inc. Supplemental material is available for this article. This article is a simultaneous joint publication in Radiology and CHEST. The articles are identical except for stylistic changes in keeping with each journal's style. Either version may be used in citing this article.
PMID:42478953 | DOI:10.1148/radiol.252721